Lawyer Reacts To Ren - Why Sick Boi Is Off All Streaming Platforms | Ren Vs KujoBeats Update

Understanding the Legal Battle Over "Sick Boy"

Introduction to the Situation

• The speaker discusses a legal issue involving a beat purchased from Beat Stars, where the producer claims ownership and demands 15% of all earnings from the song.

• Both Ren and Kujo are interested in discussing their legal battle on the show, indicating a significant conflict that has drawn attention.

• The speaker introduces themselves as an entertainment attorney specializing in music law, aiming to educate viewers about navigating similar situations.

Ren's Perspective

• Ren expresses his reluctance to make this video but emphasizes its importance due to artists' struggles with greed in the industry.

• He reveals that "Sick Boy," a personal project reflecting his health journey, has been removed from platforms due to these legal issues.

• Context is provided about Kujo being a beat maker on Beat Stars, where Ren licensed a beat for "Sick Boy," leading to complications over alleged unauthorized samples.

Licensing Issues

• Ren highlights frustrations regarding licensing terms on platforms like Beat Stars, particularly concerning limited-term licenses that can complicate successful releases.

• He shares pride in "Sick Boy" being part of his number one album but laments losing access to it due to ongoing disputes.

Transparency and Communication

• Ren aims for transparency by sharing conversations related to the dispute while acknowledging his emotional involvement in the situation.

• He encourages Kujo and his girlfriend to share any relevant communications publicly for clarity.

Purchase and Use of Beats

• In 2022, Ren purchased an unlimited license for a beat from Beat Stars, intending to use it across various streaming platforms without restrictions.

• He typically modifies beats he purchases by adding layers and vocals but stresses the importance of understanding licensing agreements fully before proceeding.

Discussion on Contract Breach and Attribution

Claim of Uncredited Work

• A claim was made by Kuu regarding a failure to credit the speaker, suggesting a breach of contract. The speaker notes that this was likely an oversight due to various circumstances.

• The Beat Stars contract stipulates that the seller must own the beat; if not, they are required to inform the buyer about any unowned elements.

Importance of Ownership in Music Production

• The speaker emphasizes that producers should not include samples in beats unless they have full ownership rights, which is crucial for avoiding legal issues.

• Despite being an underground artist at the time, the speaker received positive feedback from Kuu about their track, highlighting a previous amicable relationship.

Concerns About Beat Stars and Communication

Request for Dialogue with Beat Stars

• The speaker expresses admiration for Beat Stars as an innovative platform but calls for clearer contracts to prevent misunderstandings in future transactions.

• They express a desire to speak directly with Beat Stars' CEO to understand how such issues could arise and escalate.

Need for Stricter Licensing Checks

• There is a call for more stringent checks on unlicensed samples being sold through platforms like Beat Stars to avoid complications similar to those currently faced.

Personal Context and Copyright Issues

Background on Health and Expectations

• After returning from treatment in Canada, the speaker anticipated a relaxing period before their first solo show in five years but was met with unexpected challenges.

Initial Response to Copyright Takedown

• Upon receiving notice that their song "Sick Boy" had been taken down due to copyright claims by Kujo Beats, the speaker initially thought it might be an error.

Legal Implications of Copyright Claims

Understanding DMCA Takedown Notices

• The speaker reflects on whether there was actual copyright infringement or if it stemmed from contractual disputes, noting that filing a copyright takedown may not be appropriate for contract breaches.

Communication Breakdown with Kujo Beats

• After reaching out multiple times without response, the speaker finally receives communication from Kujo via Instagram but discovers ongoing discussions between Kujo and their lawyer unbeknownst to them.

Misunderstandings and Accusations

Clarifying Intentions

• The initial exchange seemed friendly; however, subsequent comments suggested accusations against the speaker's honesty regarding the situation.

Red Flags in Communication

Misunderstanding and Legal Issues in Music Sampling

The Initial Misunderstanding

• The speaker contacts their lawyer due to confusion about a situation involving a stolen, unlicensed sample used in their music.

• The lawyer explains that the owners of the Bulgarian choir sample are demanding 50% of the publishing rights because it was used without permission.

Consequences for Independent Artists

• A similar situation occurred with another client whose viral song faced legal action from Universal due to an unlicensed sample.

• When producers fail to address these issues, artists are left to handle the fallout, despite being the ones generating revenue from hit songs.

Escalation of Legal Actions

• Sample owners escalate their demands by issuing a copyright strike on the artist's YouTube video as leverage, which negatively impacts the artist's channel.

• The speaker criticizes this approach, suggesting that direct communication would have been more effective than resorting to strikes.

Importance of Legal Representation

• The speaker emphasizes caution when selecting attorneys, noting that slow responses can exacerbate legal issues.

• They share personal experiences with copyright strikes and highlight how using such tools improperly can lead to further complications.

Clarifying Rights and Responsibilities

• Under U.S. law, misusing copyright infringement tools is illegal; proper legal guidance is essential for artists and producers.

• The speaker expresses frustration over not being contacted directly regarding royalty payments and clarifies misunderstandings about payment responsibilities.

Understanding Publishing Rights

• There is confusion surrounding royalties owed; the speaker asserts they do not owe anything since payments come from publishers rather than directly from them.

• They explain how performance royalties work through organizations like PRS in the UK but clarify that this does not equate to earnings from music distribution platforms.

Addressing Miscommunication

• Despite ongoing misunderstandings with Kujo regarding payment entitlements, the speaker remains committed to ensuring fair compensation for all parties involved.

Discussion on Sample Clearance and Contract Breaches

Misunderstandings in Sample Clearance Responsibilities

• The speaker addresses misconceptions about sample clearance, stating that it is the producer's responsibility, not the performer’s.

• Despite being willing to negotiate a fair publishing split, the speaker feels misled by Kujo regarding the ownership of a stolen sample.

Claims of Breach of Contract

• Both parties have potential breach of contract claims: Kujo claims he was owed a percentage of publishing based on their agreement.

• The speaker suggests that there may have been issues with registering music with performance rights organizations (PRO), as Kujo has not received any payments.

Counterclaims and Negotiation Tactics

• The speaker notes that Ren also has grounds for a breach claim since Kujo provided a song containing unauthorized samples.

• A copyright strike was used as leverage in negotiations, which the speaker argues was an unfair tactic.

Financial Demands and Licensing Issues

• An email from Ren's lawyer demands additional payments including £3,000 and 15% retroactive earnings from the master recording.

• The demand for 15% retroactive earnings raises concerns about fairness since the speaker had already paid for an unlimited license.

Legal Implications and Fairness in Agreements

• The discussion highlights potential legal ramifications under U.S. law regarding false copyright claims and breach of contract.

Understanding the Dispute Over Music Rights

The Principle of Ownership and Value

• The speaker reflects on the nature of art ownership, emphasizing that once a transaction is completed, the original seller cannot demand more money based on increased value due to external factors like an artist's popularity or death.

Contractual Obligations and Breaches

• The speaker discusses their belief in having purchased an unlimited license for a sample but realizes that this was not honored, leading to potential claims against them for breaching contract terms.

Content ID Issues

• A specific breach cited involves the activation of content ID on YouTube, which contradicts the speaker's request for it to be turned off. This miscommunication has implications for revenue generation from their music.

Monetization and Fair Use

• The speaker allows content creators to monetize videos reacting to their songs as a promotional strategy, indicating a commitment to fair use and mutual benefit within the industry.

Leverage in Negotiations

• The opposing party uses legal leverage by threatening to claim 100% ownership unless new terms are agreed upon, including a retroactive master split and an advance payment.

Public Communication Strategy

• Frustrated with the situation, the speaker warns they will publicly explain why a video is down if it isn't restored soon. They clarify that they do not intend to incite bullying against anyone involved.

Seeking Collaborative Solutions

• Despite frustrations, the speaker proposes creating a new song together as a solution. This would allow both parties to share profits equally while also addressing tensions between them.

Industry Dynamics and Misunderstandings

• The speaker expresses concern about how misunderstandings can lead individuals in creative industries to make poor decisions based on perceived financial gains or losses.

Missed Opportunities

Discussion on Sample Usage and Legal Issues

Allegations of Sample Theft

• The speaker discusses previous offers of reconciliation that were ignored, leading to allegations on social media about stealing samples.

• A message from a British artist claiming the speaker has stolen samples is mentioned, which the speaker refutes as false.

• Clarifies that all samples used are cleared with publishing companies, emphasizing legality in their music production.

Cover Songs and Licensing

• The speaker explains U.S. law regarding cover songs, noting that a sync license is required for video portions but not for audio on music platforms.

• Highlights the ambiguity surrounding what constitutes a "true cover song," expressing frustration over this gray area in licensing.

Call with Lawyers

• The anticipation of a call with lawyers and Kujo is shared, aiming for an adult conversation to resolve issues amicably.

• During the call, the lawyer accuses the speaker of being unprofessional for taking matters public; however, the speaker defends their actions as responses to provocation.

Communication Breakdown

• Notably, Kujo remains silent during the call despite direct questions from the speaker, which adds tension to the discussion.

• The importance of direct communication between parties rather than through lawyers is emphasized as potentially more effective in resolving disputes.

Emotional Impact and Miscommunication

• The lawyer attempts to address fairness directly with Kujo but receives no response; this lack of engagement feels disrespectful to the speaker.

• After feeling let down by how discussions unfolded, further complications arise when misinformation about contracts appears online.

Encountering Misinformation

Girlfriend's Involvement and Miscommunication

Initial Conversation with Girlfriend

• The speaker discusses a conversation initiated by his girlfriend after noticing unsent messages, leading to an extended chat about the situation.

• The girlfriend expresses that she feels Kujo has been misrepresented, attributing some blame to the industry and the speaker's lawyer.

Escalation of Tensions

• The girlfriend threatens physical harm (breaking kneecaps), which the speaker finds humorous but also concerning due to its unnecessary nature.

• The speaker reflects on how such threats could be perceived differently if roles were reversed, highlighting a double standard in reactions to aggression.

Mental Health Considerations

• The girlfriend gaslights the speaker regarding mental health implications, ignoring his own struggles while criticizing him for discussing their situation publicly.

• Despite feeling frustrated, the speaker clarifies he does not want anyone to send abuse towards her or Kujo; he aims for transparency without malice.

Negotiating Terms and Misunderstandings

Attempting Resolution

• After a seemingly amicable discussion, the speaker agrees to split publishing rights but hesitates on sharing master rights out of principle.

• He considers splitting future master rights just to resolve tensions despite believing he shouldn't have to due to prior issues with stolen samples.

Betrayal and Public Defamation

• Following a positive conversation, the next morning reveals her public posts on Reddit misrepresenting contract details, causing frustration for the speaker.

• He confronts her about defamation as she fabricates contract terms that do not exist, leading him to feel betrayed after their private discussions.

Legal Implications and Financial Damage

Legal Concerns Raised

• The speaker discovers further misinformation from Kujo's girlfriend regarding contractual obligations that could lead to legal repercussions like defamation or slander.

• He contemplates whether pursuing legal action is worthwhile given potential financial damages caused by these false claims.

Clarifying Misunderstandings

Discussion on Publishing and Contractual Obligations

Liability of Publishers

• The publishers, as a third party, may be liable if they fail to fulfill their obligations, prompting them to take corrective actions.

• A significant aspect is the retroactive payment owed to Kujo under the contract, which could mitigate claims from both sides.

Breach of Contract Considerations

• The existing breach of contract hinges on whether Ren will agree to pay the publishing share due to Kujo; this situation is complicated by the publisher's previous failures.

• Ren expresses frustration over having to advocate for Kujo despite his difficult behavior, indicating a personal investment in resolving the issue.

Escalation of Tensions

• Ren threatens legal action if misinformation continues regarding his public image and song usage, highlighting his commitment to fairness and principle.

• The deterioration of relationships is evident as both parties express dissatisfaction with each other's actions and statements.

Legal Implications and Strategies

• Ren emphasizes his stance against greed and how false narratives about him affect his reputation; he feels compelled to act against these misrepresentations.

• An ultimatum from Kujo’s lawyer escalates tensions further, threatening complete control over the song unless terms are agreed upon.

Personal Impact and Decision-Making

• Frustrated by threats regarding his own work, Ren decides he will remove the song himself rather than concede power over it.

• He seeks clarity on several issues: retroactive payments due to Kujo, grounds for filing a copyright strike, and demands for master rights.

Anticipatory Breach Concept

• Discussion introduces anticipatory breach theory where one party's demand for more can excuse performance obligations from another party.

Disappointment and Financial Strain in the Music Industry

The Core Issue of Financial Harm

• The speaker expresses disappointment regarding how a situation has been handled, emphasizing that they are the one suffering financially due to their hard work in promoting music.

• They highlight that their story has been exploited, leading to future financial losses tied to earnings from their music.

Legal Complications and Contractual Obligations

• Discussion on the legal ramifications of an alleged breach of contract, including the need for attorneys and the financial burden incurred while pursuing payment.

• Emphasis on accountability, suggesting that parties involved should take ownership of their roles in the contractual agreement and any resulting damages.

Emotional Impact on Artists

• The speaker relates personally as an independent artist, sharing empathy for another artist's distress over losing access to their music due to external conflicts.

• They reflect on the emotional connection fans have with music, lamenting how disputes can strip away meaningful art from listeners.

Heated Exchanges and Misunderstandings

• A recounting of heated exchanges with another party (Kujo), where accusations were made about prioritizing ego over fan interests regarding song availability.

• Kujo suggests that if the speaker cared about fans, they would leave the song available; this is framed as a manipulation tactic during negotiations.

Resolution Attempts and Future Considerations

• Clarification that payment issues stem from a publisher's failure rather than personal wrongdoing; reiteration of not wanting any money owed to Kujo.

• Questions arise about how publishing rights will be negotiated moving forward, particularly concerning percentages owed amidst ongoing disputes.

Final Thoughts on Conflict Resolution

Seeking Closure Amidst Chaos

• Despite frustrations, there’s a desire for resolution; willingness to offer some form of publishing split just to end ongoing disputes.

Humor in Tension

• The speaker shares a humorous remark made by Kujo about their music being subpar despite earlier compliments—highlighting contradictions in interpersonal dynamics during conflict.

Focus on Artistic Integrity

Cujo Beatdown Release and Context

Overview of Upcoming Releases

• The new song titled "Cujo Beatdown" is set to release next week, with an accompanying video that the speaker expresses excitement about.

• The speaker created the beat entirely by themselves, ensuring it contains no unlicensed samples, and wrote all the lyrics independently.

• In addition to "Cujo Beatdown," a remade version of "Sick Boy" will be released for its anniversary, featuring the speaker's original lyrics and arrangement.

Clarifications on Remakes

• There is curiosity regarding how Ren will approach remaking "Sick Boy," particularly concerning any original samples that may have caused issues previously.

• The upcoming song is described as "angry," indicating a strong emotional tone in contrast to other releases.

Current Situation and Claims

Summary of Disputes

• The speaker addresses claims made by C Jo regarding unpaid publishing shares and royalties from master recordings.

• C Jo has filed a copyright claim against a video related to these disputes; however, it's unclear if there was valid infringement concerning sample clearance.

Defamation Claims and Future Plans

• Ongoing defamation claims are mentioned alongside the anticipation of "Kujo Beatdown," which holds significant meaning for many involved.